The Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires permits for any person(s) staying overnight at shelters or back-country campsites. This includes thru-hikers on the AT. If you are doing a section hike in the park click HERE for that permit. If you are an AT thru-hiker (defined as a person who is starting AND ending their hike at least 50 miles outside the GSMNP) click HERE for that permit.